Summary:
Susan Wagner High School students run a virtual bakery business, gaining real-world entrepreneurship skills.
The four-year program covers finance, marketing, and leadership, culminating in a virtual company launch.
Students partner with local bakers to create an inclusive bakery addressing dietary restrictions.
Graduates earn a Career and Technical Education diploma, preparing them for college or the workforce.
The program boosts confidence and career readiness, with students like Liam Smith overcoming shyness to excel in public speaking.
Susan Wagner High School's Virtual Enterprise Program is transforming students into young entrepreneurs through a hands-on bakery project. This innovative program not only teaches financial literacy and business management but also prepares students for real-world challenges.
The Journey from Shy Students to Confident Entrepreneurs
Liam Smith, a senior heading to Hunter College, shares how the program helped him overcome shyness and master public speaking. "We filled our resumes with important life skills," he says, highlighting the program's impact beyond academics.
A Four-Year Blueprint for Business Success
- Freshman Year: Introduction to business foundations.
- Sophomore Year: Leadership and public presentation skills.
- Junior Year: Business plan development and product marketing.
- Senior Year: Launch and run a virtual company.
Real-World Skills for Future Leaders
Joseph Weisberg, the program's coordinator, emphasizes the real-deal experience students gain. "They learn to plan a career and make an impact in the local business community," he says. The program includes partnerships with local bakers and trips to firms like BlackRock, providing invaluable insights.
Inclusive Bakery: A Recipe for Success
For two years, students operated an inclusive bakery, catering to dietary restrictions. They researched ingredients and collaborated with local experts to address food allergy concerns, gaining practical business experience.
Life-Changing Outcomes
Students like Max Koleci and Chasity Gordon credit the program with shaping their futures. "This class has helped me learn who I want to be," says Gordon, now aspiring to a career in marketing. Graduates earn a Career and Technical Education diploma, equipping them with skills for college or the workforce.
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